My Journey at Orange Coast College: A Tale of Growth, Friendship, and Achievement

Discovering Orange Coast College

After many years and several careers, my sister convinced me to go back to school with her. It seemed like a worthwhile endeavor, so off we went. Orange Coast College (OCC), located in Costa Mesa, California, became our academic home. Established in 1947, OCC has grown into one of the nation's top transfer schools, offering more than 135 academic and career programs. The 164-acre campus boasts exceptional facilities and the latest technology, making it an ideal place for students seeking quality education at an affordable price.

The STAR Program: Accelerated Learning

We enrolled in the STAR program, a unique initiative that allowed students to earn an Associate of Arts (AA) degree in just three semesters. This accelerated pathway was perfect for those eager to fast-track their education without compromising on the quality of learning. The program's intensive structure fostered a close-knit community among participants, leading to meaningful and lasting connections.

Forming Lifelong Friendships

During my time in the STAR program, I met several remarkable individuals who became dear friends. Andrea, Daniel, Suzanne, Wanda, and, of course, Mike—affectionately known as "The Mighty Tortoise"—were among them. Mike's nickname stemmed from his calm demeanor and steadfast determination, much like the tortoise from the classic fable. Our diverse backgrounds and shared commitment to our studies created a supportive environment where we could all thrive.

An Inspiring Educator: The Beauty Professor

One of the most memorable experiences at OCC was meeting our substitute professor, who eventually became our full-time instructor. Known online as "The Beauty Professor" (Rachel Anise), and let me tell you, she lived up to the name. Beyond being ridiculously attractive, she was sharp, engaging, and genuinely great at what she did. Rachel is a full-time tenured professor of Communication Studies, teaching courses such as public speaking, debate, mediation, social media management, interpersonal communication, and mass communication. In addition to her academic career, she started the "Beauty Professor" blog in January 2012, where she shares insights on beauty products from both high-end and independent niche luxury lines. Rachel is also a mother and has a daughter named Joey Elle who was born in 2019. Turns out, she had a pretty interesting background—she was in a band, worked as a J.C. Penney’s catalog model, and later became a well-known beauty influencer. I didn’t know all that at the time, but it makes total sense looking back. She was not only an educator but her multifaceted career and engaging teaching style left a lasting impression on me, exemplifying the diverse talents and passions that educators can bring to the classroom.

Balancing Professional Life and Academic Pursuits

At that time, my life was a blend of professional work and academic endeavors. By day, I was developing complex systems for DNA data management; by night, I was attending basic biology courses at OCC. This juxtaposition of practical experience and foundational learning enriched my understanding of both fields, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between industry and education.

Achieving Academic Excellence

My dedication to my studies paid off. I earned an AA degree in American History and was one of only ten students out of approximately 23,740 to achieve a perfect 4.0 GPA, earning President's List distinction every semester. This accomplishment placed me in the top 0.04 percent of the student body, a testament to the supportive environment at OCC and the quality of education provided.

About Orange Coast College

Orange Coast College is a public community college that enrolls approximately 24,000 undergraduate students, making it the third-largest college in Orange County. The college offers Associate of Art and Associate of Science degrees, certificates of achievement, and lower-division classes transferable to other colleges and universities.

Notable Alumni

OCC has a rich history of alumni who have excelled in various fields. Some notable alumni include:

• Ken Cory (1983) – Controller State of California
• Dennis Fitzpatrick (1983) – Bank President
• William Katt (1983) – Actor
• Randal McCardle (1983) – Real Estate Developer
• Dan Quisenberry (1983) – Professional Baseball Player
• Judy Burns (1984) – Television Writer
• Dr. David Emmes (1984) – Producer South Coast Repertory
• Brad Gates (1984) – Sheriff-Coroner County of Orange
• Dr. James T. Goodrich (1984) – Neurological Surgeon
• Dr. Susan Huscroft (1985) – Pediatrician
• Sylvia Mendez (2024) – Civil Rights Activist and recipient of the Alumni Equity Champion Award

These individuals exemplify the diverse paths OCC graduates can take, underscoring the college's commitment to fostering talent across various disciplines.

OCC's Commitment to Student Success

Orange Coast College's dedication to student achievement is evident in its impressive statistics. The Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS) at OCC served 1,129 students in the 2023-2024 academic year, boasting an average course success rate of 84% and a retention rate of 85%. Notably, 18% of these students achieved a 4.0 GPA, reflecting the college's supportive environment and commitment to academic excellence.

My journey at Orange Coast College was transformative, filled with personal growth, enduring friendships, and significant academic achievements. The college's supportive community, dedicated faculty, and diverse programs provided a fertile ground for success. Reflecting on this period, I am grateful for the experiences and connections that have shaped my path, many of which continue to influence my life today.